The inland mountain region of Humboldt County, much of it designated wilderness, is rugged terrain drained by two important rivers, the Wild and Scenic Trinity River, and the Klamath River, into which it flows. Access to the region is primarily via Hwy 299 and Hwy 96. Traveling east from Arcata along Hwy 299, travelers pass the community of Blue Lake, followed by the town of Willow Creek some 32 miles further on. From Willow Creek Hwy 96 runs north through rugged forested terrain, while Hwy 299 continues east past the craggy granite peaks of Trinity County, passing over and through the mountains that separate the Pacific Coast and its redwood forests from the interior of the state. Much of the way Hwy 299 runs right next to the Trinity River, as does Hwy 96 south of Weitchpec. From Weitchpec north, Hwy 96 follows the Klamath into Siskiyou County. Both routes afford spectacular views and memorable rest stops, as well as opportunities for exhilarating outdoor activities.

Trinity County: Salyer to Buckhorn Summit

Trinity County, one of California's original 27 counties, was established in 1850. At that time it stretched all the way to the coast and north to the Oregon border. Today there are 58 counties. All of Humboldt County and Del Norte County, and a big chunk of Siskiyou County, were carved out of the original Trinity County.

The Trinity River Basin grew from its early Gold Rush days into a vibrant recreation area. Camping, kayaking, rafting, fishing and hiking are among the favorite activities of the area. People say, and it's probably true, that there are more deer than people here. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities by driving along Hwy 299 and checking out towns and turnouts along the way. The highway runs right across the county from Salyer, at the western end of Trinity County, to Buckhorn Summit at its eastern end. Most of the way Hwy 299 runs alongside the Trinity River, and throughout its length it offers spectacular views of natural beauty: snow-covered peaks, dense forest and the ever-changing face of the Trinity River from the deep gorges and rapids of Burnt Ranch to the more family-friendly waters upriver. Del Loma, Big Bar, Big Flat and Junction City, all situated right on the river, offer a wide variety of amenities from raft and kayak rentals and guided expeditions to campgrounds, resort lodgings and restaurants. Opportunities for satisfying fresh air vacations and activities in the area are limited only by the imagination.

Weaverville, the county seat, retains the flavor of the Old West. There are no stop lights or parking meters here. The town's historic downtown, with its old buildings, quaint shops and charming atmosphere, as well as a lively arts scene, keeps locals and visitors busy with socializing, shopping and more. Weaverville is particularly well-suited for those who wish to explore the Trinity Alps. It is nestled at the base of the Trinity Alps Wilderness Area, a 500,000 acre protected area that hosts many a backpacker, equestrian, black bear and mountain lion.

Visitors can take Hwy 3 north from Weaverville to Trinity Lake, another of the area's many recreational destinations. The lake offers boating, fishing, water sports, resorts, camping and even houseboats. They can also take Hwy 299 east about a dozen miles from Weaverville and, turning north on Trinity Dam Boulevard, head up past the historic town of Lewiston to Lewiston Lake for more fun on the water. It's the perfect place to spend a lazy day kicking back in a canoe and watching bald eagles soar overhead, with or without a fishing pole in your hands.